This Saturday marks a pivotal moment in the NBA playoffs as two Game 3 matchups take center stage. The Boston Celtics will face off against the New York Knicks at 3:30 p.m. ET, where the Celtics aim to avoid falling into a daunting 0-3 hole against the resurgent Knicks. Later, the Minnesota Timberwolves will battle the Golden State Warriors, each team hoping to secure a lead in the series after splitting the first two games.
Fans and fantasy basketball players alike should expect an action-packed day, and there are several standout players to consider for your DFS lineups using FantasyLabs’ tools and projections.
With Stephen Curry sidelined due to a hamstring injury, Jalen Brunson emerges as a premier choice at point guard. Brunson has consistently excelled in the postseason, averaging 47.5 DraftKings points per game. Despite a slower performance in Game 2 where he scored 17 points, he remains a crucial player for the Knicks, who will look to advance to 3-0 on their home court.
Brandin Podziemski is a notable value pick for the Warriors. With an increased role following Curry’s absence, Podziemski has shown potential, recently posting impressive numbers including 11 points, six rebounds, and six assists in Game 2. He averaged 32.1 DraftKings points in regular-season games without Curry, making him a solid option at his low salary.
Other players to keep an eye on include Derrick White, who, despite shooting struggles, has proven to be a consistent contributor for the Celtics, and Donte DiVincenzo, whose role might expand due to challenges faced by Mike Conley for the Timberwolves.
As we shift focus to shooting guards, Anthony Edwards stands out with the highest projections across various metrics. He has been a dominant force, consistently producing over 47 DraftKings points in his playoff outings. Buddy Hield is another player to watch, providing a strong value pick that could benefit any fantasy lineup.
Jayson Tatum shines as the top player at small forward, especially after a commanding return from injury. His impressive scoring potential makes him an essential piece for constructing competitive lineups.
Finally, at center, Karl-Anthony Towns has emerged as the clear top pick, boasting the highest projections. Coming off back-to-back double-doubles, he represents a key factor in the Timberwolves’ quest for victory.
This Saturday’s contests are brimming with exciting possibilities for both team outcomes and fantasy performances, making it a thrilling day for basketball enthusiasts. With strategic edits to lineups to incorporate these standout players, fans will have a chance to maximize their success.